During a recent episode of Aaryamann Sethi’s YouTube vlog featuring his family, he mentioned that his mother, Archana Puran Singh, expressed a desire to have dinner at 5 PM. Aaryamann remarked, “We are ordering some food. She wants to eat dinner now, at 5 PM.”
According to Dr. Amreen Sheikh, the chief dietitian at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, having an early dinner can be beneficial for many individuals. She noted, “Eating earlier allows the body sufficient time to digest the food before bedtime. This practice can enhance digestion, alleviate acidity and bloating, and contribute to improved sleep quality. Additionally, it can help manage hunger patterns and reduce late-night snacking, which is often associated with weight gain and adverse metabolic health.”
However, Sheikh emphasized that the optimal time for dinner varies from person to person. “The ideal dinner timing is influenced by an individual’s lifestyle, work commitments, sleep schedule, and hunger levels. For those who retire early for the night and feel comfortable dining at 5 PM, that timing may be suitable. Conversely, if there is a significant interval between dinner and sleep, some individuals might experience hunger later and resort to unhealthy snacks, making a light, nutritious snack later in the evening a more sensible option,” she suggested.
While early dinners can support weight management, Sheikh cautioned that timing alone is not a panacea. “Consuming dinner earlier can diminish mindless late-night eating and assist individuals in adhering to their calorie limits. However, the true impact comes from integrating this practice with balanced meals, consistent physical activity, and adequate sleep,” she explained.
Individuals with demanding schedules, those who exercise late at night, or people with diabetes or other health concerns should refrain from making significant alterations to their meal timings without professional guidance. “Prolonged intervals between meals may not be suitable for everyone. It is crucial to adopt a routine that is practical and sustainable rather than merely following celebrity trends,” Sheikh advised.
She recommended maintaining a gap of at least 2 to 3 hours between dinner and bedtime, and suggested opting for lighter, balanced meals rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, rather than indulging in heavy, oily, or sugary foods late in the evening.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or insights from experts consulted. It is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare practitioner before initiating any new routine.
